This competition is designed for high school students from Western Pennsylvania and the tristate area studying Japanese language. Japanese language students of all levels and students who are involved in Japan-related cultural activities, are able to compete against other area students in speech or poster activities. Non-language students are eligible to compete in the poster contest. Each year over 80 students participate. There will be lots of fun Japan-related activities for participating students and parents.

Students who compete in speech levels are required to write and memorize a speech on the chosen topic for the contest. Winners receive prizes and trophies! Please visit the contest page for more information.

2025 Themes:

Poster Session:  Japanese Songs
Beginner Level: Self-Introduction
Intermediate: Japanese Songs
Advanced: Japanese Songs
Advanced Plus: Japanese Songs

Heritage: Japanese Songs

Japanese language teachers or students studying Japanese in high school should contact the JASP office at 412-856-8608 or email Katsuko Shellhammer to learn more about the competition. The contest is held in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Museum of Art.